This blog is brought to you by Sandstorm. The company is an online exclusive and luxury designer swimwear, accessories and resort wear store. CHECK OUT THE COLLECTIONS: http://www.SandstormLuxury.com
Read to get all the news and reviews on key looks, designs and trends for each season AND to get exclusive Sandstorm special offers.

Monday, 14 August 2017

When we created the in-Visible campaign back in 2015, we discovered a bubbly, vibrant 'lady of a certain age' amongst the group of women who took part in the photo shoot on that day.

Jenny 2015 - in-Visible Campaign

18 months later, after quite a bit of upheaval for her and a milestone stone birthday, we were fortunate to again shoot with her in Devon a few weeks ago. We were shooting our latest campaign for The Marine Conservation Society and it was the perfect time to work with her again.

Jenny is 70, is a fitness instructor and she is a true advocate for living life with passion.

We're delighted to welcome Jenny on board as our oldest and wisest swimwear model! Growing older with grace and occasionally throwing caution to the wind, she's an amazing advert for keeping fit and active throughout your life.

At Sandstorm we aim to create and sell products which cross the inter-generational divide after-all, age is but a number and style and beauty are timeless.

Tuesday, 1 August 2017

Oh how we love a kaftan aka beach cover up! Something to slip into on the beach or pop on over a tee or little bikini on a cool balmy evening. You can dress them up or down. Like we said - they are very versatile.

Here's a few our of 2017 faves. The great news is they are all available in our shop. They are affordable fashion that will make a big impact and create a luxe look in your vaca wardrobe! (most are priced between £22 - £35 so they won't break the bank)

We're loving lace and boho prints. We've chosen styles and prints which will suit those who love delicate laid back chic, vintage vibes and those who love to brighten up their wardrobe and like the hippie /festival trend.

Saturday, 22 July 2017

It has taken a little while to set everything up, but we had to get everything right with our contractual agreements. Now, we're delighted to announce that we have linked up with The Marine Conservation Society UK.

Each piece of swimwear we have designed and the other items we also sell in the Champion of the Coastline Collection will generate a donation which we'll forward onto MCSUK. 10% profits of our profits per item will go to helping them carry on their great work in research, education and promoting the action needed to help us all save our seas and marine life.

We're very excited about the collaboration and as we consciously build our brand we hope our customers will also consider purchasing their other products and services from other brands and businesses with an ethical business model.

Our pledge is to manufacture as much of our collections as we can in the UK. To source our products and services from ethical practitioners and to continue our own research and development into recycled materials so that we can create a collection only using ethical practices and circular economy principals whenever and where-ever possible.

To see our Champion of the Coastline Collection please click HERE For further information on our campaign please email us: enquiries@sandstormluxury.com

The micronutrients in coconut water help boost the
immune system. Plus, the plant hormones called cytokinins in this health drink
exhibit anti-aging, antithrombotic and anticancer effects.

To reap the maximum health benefits, opt for fresh and
pure coconut water over the bottled version. You can drink a few cups of
coconut water a day or add it to your smoothie recipes.

Here are the top 10 health benefits of coconut water.

1. Rehydrates the Body

Coconut water is an excellent thirst quencher to beat
tropical summer thirst. Because of its electrolyte composition, coconut water
is also used to rehydrate the body in case of dehydration and fluid loss due to
diarrhea, vomiting or excessive sweating. A good source of carbohydrates, it
also helps lift your energy level.

Research suggests that coconut water can be used to
rehydrate the body after exercise. In fact, a 2012 study published in the
Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that coconut
water has a similar positive effect as sports drinks.

In addition to boosting rehydration, coconut water is
also easy on the stomach and thus is used to soothe tummy troubles like
indigestion, acid reflux and gastroenteritis.

2. Lowers Blood Pressure

Coconut water is considered good for controlling high
blood pressure, thanks to its vitamin C, potassium and magnesium content.
Potassium, in particular, helps lower blood pressure by balancing out the
negative effects of sodium.

A study published in the West Indian Medical Journal
in 2005 also found that coconut water helps control hypertension.

To help reduce high blood pressure, drink a cup of
fresh coconut water twice a day. Bottled coconut water, however, may not be
very beneficial as may be high in sodium.

According to a 2012 study published in the Journal of
Medicinal Food, both tender as well as mature coconut water have beneficial
effects on lipid metabolism to counteract increased total cholesterol, very
low-density lipoproteins (VLDL), LDL and triglycerides.

Plus, coconut water has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory
and anti platelet properties and helps improve circulation. Thus, it helps
reduce plaque formation in the arteries and lowers the risk of heart attacks
and strokes.

4. Relieves Hangovers

Coconut water is also a great natural remedy for
hangovers. Alcohol robs your body of hydration and this dehydration causes your
morning-after booze blues. Coconut water replenishes the electrolytes in the
body and boosts hydration, thus making you feel better.

Also, the antioxidants in this revitalizing health drink
fight oxidative stress caused by indulging in too much alcohol. It will also
help settle an acid stomach.

You can make a smoothie by blending 2 cups each of
unsweetened coconut water and ripe mangoes, 2 to 3 tablespoons of lemon juice,
2 fresh mint sprigs and ½ cup of ice.

5. Promotes Weight Loss

Coconut water is an ideal drink for weight loss. It is
low in calories and easy on the stomach. In fact, this light and refreshing
drink contains various bioactive enzymes that aid digestion and boost fat metabolism.

Plus, coconut water is rich in potassium, which helps
balance out sodium. Excess sodium in the body tends to cause water retention,
contributing to water weight. Thus, coconut water helps flush out excess water
as well as toxins from your body.

You can drink an 8-ounce glass of this health drink 3
or 4 times a week to facilitate weight loss. Do not drink coconut water in
excess as eventually it may add more calories than you want.

6. Treats Headaches

Most headaches, even migraines, are triggered by
dehydration. In such cases, coconut water can be of great help in supplying
electrolytes to the body and boosting hydration.

Coconut water is also rich in magnesium. People who
suffer from migraines often have low levels of magnesium. Studies also suggest
that magnesium can help reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.

7. Balances pH Levels

Stress, toxic load and a diet high in acid-forming
foods, such as processed fast foods, often contribute to acidic pH levels that
cause low energy and reduce the body’s ability to absorb vitamins and minerals.

It also helps with common issues faced by people who
have diabetes. It helps manage your weight. As it helps improve circulation,
coconut water is also good for reducing symptoms like numbness in feet and a
tendency to develop atherosclerosis.

A 2012 study published in the journal Food and
Function studied the therapeutic effects of mature coconut water and found that
it helped decrease blood glucose levels and oxidative stress.

9. Natural Diuretic

Coconut water acts as a natural diuretic. Thus, it
promotes urine production and flow, cleansing your body of toxins. It also
helps prevent problems like urinary tract infections.

Due to its high potassium content, coconut water helps
alkalize urine and dissolves certain types of kidney stones to eventually flush
them out of the body.

To increase its effectiveness, add a pinch of sea salt
to a cup of coconut water and drink it once or twice a day. In addition to its
diuretic properties, coconut water has antibacterial properties that help fight
bladder infections.

10. Slows Down Aging

Coconut water contains cytokinins that have anti-aging
effects on cells and tissues. This reduces the risk of developing degenerative
and age-related diseases.

Refreshing and clear green coconut water also
nourishes and hydrates your skin to keep it soft and smooth. In addition to
drinking coconut water, you can mix sufficient coconut water with 2 teaspoons
of sandalwood powder to make a paste, apply it on your skin and rinse it off
when it dries completely to maintain younger-looking skin.

Warnings

Do not drink coconut water if your kidneys do
not function properly and you have high potassium levels. Coconut water may not
be suitable for those with nut allergies.

It may cause bloating and mild stomach upset in some
people.

Do not drink coconut water for at least 2 weeks before
a scheduled surgery as it may interfere with blood pressure control during and
after surgery.

People with kidney dysfunction should consult their
doctor before including coconut water in their health regimen.

Monday, 2 January 2017

2017 and beyond. We are delighted to be working with the Marine Conservation Society and be in a position to donate funds and raise awareness of their great work. The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) is the voice for everyone who loves the sea. They work to secure a future for our living seas, and to save our threatened marine wildlife before it is lost forever.Our campaign for Marine Conservation centres around a the story of a champion of the coastline, a woman who is an everyday hero who looks to make a difference to her environment and the people around her.

To this end we worked with illustrator Christianna Vale to create a comic character based on our model Daisy.

More news to follow - check the website, blog and social media for new updates.For further information email: lili@sandstormluxury.com

Tuesday, 29 November 2016

Confidence issues are something that women of all age deal with. Read how 'ladies of a certain age' dealt with this issue. Their words in cute little book featuring images from the Sandstorm photo shoot in 2015. It's heart-warming and gorgeous and only 26 pages long. A perfect quick read with a cuppa.

Friday, 11 November 2016

They say it's all about the bass, bout the base, bout the bass (so the song goes)!Apparently men like a little more booty to hold at night (again not our words but the lyrics in a famous song)!

Soooooooooooo, we've created some gorgeous little hotpants/swimshorts and leggings to workout in in our 2017 signature prints - seahorses! Hope you like them. More designs will be released on the website over the coming weeks. 10% profit on all items sold will go to Marine Conservation Society.

Monday, 31 October 2016

When we were approached by Miss Earth England 2016 to be the sponsor of her swimwear for the Miss Earth International finals, we were more than happy to help out any way we could.

Luissa Burton is a thoughtful and inspirational model who is keen to promote an ethical and healthy lifestyle where you consider the environment and our place on this beautiful planet.

Afterall #greenisthenewblack

So we discussed our up and coming campaign with Marine Conservation Society with her and we agreed to create a beautiful bikini highlighting the plight of seahorses in a wow colour combination which was England i.e. Red!

We took Luissa's measurements and created a bikini specific to her personal needs.

And the results ........ they speak for themselves. Luissa looked sensational in the resortwear competition (we watched her live streamed online). Not only does the bikini look amazing it is functional and can be worn in water (afterall that's what bikinis are for).

For further information on pricing for bespoke bikinis please email: lili@sandstormluxury.com

Monday, 3 October 2016

We're delighted to announce we are supporting Miss Earth England - Luissa Burton on her journey to become Miss Earth 2016.

#greenisthenewblackInternational model Luissa will wear pieces from our new 2017 collection at the grand finals. The Philippines once again plays host to the 16th edition of Miss Earth, the highly anticipated international environmental event crowns beauty queens who serve at the forefront of promoting environmental awareness. Our new collection draws attention to climate change and marine conservation issues.

Thursday, 1 September 2016

Well!
We've been a little on the quiet side (online) for a number of months. But, we've been busy creating new everything!
New web content, new designs, new business partnerships. Even a new logo!
Here it is - it will start to populate all our online offering and tags etc from the new year!

Wednesday, 3 August 2016

All to be revealed in September!We've been working on an amazing new idea which brings together elements of fantasy, fiction and reality.How does the saying go ...... life imitating art or is it art imitating life!Exciting times ahead!Working with illustrator Chrissy Vale in secret in Devon! The model has been chosen and so has our secret assignment.

Monday, 7 March 2016

Looking
for a holiday with a difference this summer? How about singing morning, noon
and night, discovering a beautiful Greece Island, having BBQs on the beach,
making new friends and meeting likeminded people as you discover your voice
from within?If you like the sound of
this holiday, then join award winning composer and choir director Helen Yeomans
for an all-inclusive singing break on the Greek Island of Paros for only £595
including all meals workshops, coaching, car hire) – excludes price of flight.

With a
beautiful broad repertoire of music from simple chants, gospel rock, world
music and heart-felt original songs written by Helen, this fabulous singing holiday
is a unique break away in the sun where you can learn something new. Whether
you are an accomplished singer or even if you have never sung before you will
be amazed at the beautiful soulful harmonies you will create under the patience
and guidance of Helen.

Helen
Yeomans is an international award winning song writer/composer and she is the
founder and leader of the acclaimed a cappella choir Glorious Chorus. Glorious
Chorus’s reputation has taken the choir around the country, including
performances at Glastonbury festival, The Isle Of Wight Jazz Festival and Port
Eliot Festival. Helen writes and/or arranges all the songs that the choir sings
and runs workshops around the UK and abroad teaching her award-winning
compositions.She is also the director
of Thula Mama Ltd, teaching songs to mothers and babies, and has franchised
groups around the UK.Helen's song
'Awaken' was chosen as a featured performance piece at 2009's 'Sing For Water'
annual fundraiser at London's South Bank, as part of the Mayor's Thames
Festival. Her songs were also chosen to be performed at the Brighton Fringe
Festival in 2008 and 2009. In 2006 Helen’s song ‘Goddess’ was an Honourable
Mention Winner at the Unisong international song writing Competition.In 2015 she won the gospel/faith prize in a
major international song writing competition with her show-stopping song
‘Saved’. With over 7,000 entries in the competition and winners from around the
world, Helen is thrilled with this success.

Says
Helen "One of the most rewarding aspects of my work to bring people out of
their shell and express themselves through their voice".

It is no
surprise that Helen is in demand for commissioned work and she is currently
working with the Hull Freedom Choir for performances next year.

Helen’s
ability to infuse groups with her passion and humour is magical! Expect tears,
laughter, exquisite music, passion and lots of love. All in a beautiful family
run hotel on the beach in Paros.

Testimonials
from Paros:

"A
really lovely week which surpassed all expectations. A comprehensive programme
to complement the singing, led with great kindness. Workshops, trips, car hire,
full board including meal out. Helen's teaching was as inspiring as ever."
John

‘Not
only did I discover I could sing, and enjoy it, but the holiday included so
many other attractions, walks, swimming, visits to other locations included in
the cost. The week exceeded my expectations in every way’ Andrew, UK

Firstly imagine these scenarios; you’re invited to a
day at the beach for a relaxing swim or a lovely day at a luxury spa with your
loved one, family or friends - You’d love to go, but your hair says no!

Your body is willing but you know getting your weave
or locks wet at the roots causes all sorts of headaches, and the thought of an
itchy scalp or matted roots are just a couple things which stop ladies from
getting involved with water based hobbies, events and past-times.

But ladies, worry no more and take the plunge into
the pool with a super stretchy 100% silicone swimming cap from itcantbeweaveit.co.uk

The new to the British market icantbeweaveit.co.uk
swim cap is available in a chic black or hot pink. It is a functional and
stylish swimming or shower accessory which has been specifically designed for
bulky hair and is perfect for ladies which big, bold hairstyles.

Word on the street is that these swim caps are
adored by several high profile celebrities in the USA and as a result they are
selling like hot cakes across the pond!

Still not sure the product is for you and still
thinking about buying one of the icantbeweaveit.co.uk
swim caps? Well, here are a few reviews from very satisfied customers

“This is a brilliant product for extensions which I
have just had done – hat fits perfectly”

“Perfect for my weave – it’s not flimsy”

To get your hands on this year’s must have summer
accessory which only costs £19.99 and is offered with free shipping in the UK
by icantbeweaveit.co.uk
visit their link on the website at: icantbeweaveit.co.uk